Moving message sign



Sept. 16,1969

Filed Dec. 14, 1967 R. E. PAIGE MOVING MESSAGE SIGN 4 Sheets-Sheet 1 /4A WHEN Youef TH//esTY /2-/r DRINK SAMS /4 TTOR/VE YS Sept. 16, 1969 R. E. PAIGE MOVING MESSAGE SIGN 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed Dec. 14, 1967 ATTORNEYS sept. 16, 1969 RE. PMGE 3,466,776

Y MOVING MESSAGE SIGN Filed Dec. 14, 1967 4 Sheets-Sheet 5 Sept. 16, 1969 R. E. MGE 3,466,776

MOVING MESSAGE SIGN 1 Filed Dec. 14, 196? 4 Sheets-Sheet. 4

22 /72 ,/M/ns 2:5

I Y v :NVE/wm //83//9/ BY /CHARD E ,DA/6E f L,/92 /9/ @m @h/MM /9 Arrm/VEYS United States Patent O M' 3,466,776 MOVING MESSAGE SIGN Richard E. Paige, New York, N Y., assigner to Aranar Marketing Services, Inc., Chicago, lll., a corporation of Illinois Filed Dec. 14, 1967, Ser. No. 690,662 Int. Cl. G09f 11/29; Etib 9/08 U.S. Cl. 40-85 18 Claims ABSTRACT F THE DISCLOSURE A moving message sign which, according to a first embodiment, employs a message-bearing member which is wound on a spring-loaded roller and is normally concealed within an appropriately decorated box. The message-bearing member is pulled down to expose the message or other indicia printed or otherwise provided on it. Upon being released, the message-bearing member is automatically rewound on the spring-loaded roller so that it, once again, is concealed. In a second embodiment, the message-bearing member of the moving message sign functions both as a means for displaying a message and is the spring mechanism for rewinding it. In this case, the message-bearing member is formed from a springy material which normally is loosely rolled on a xed support member and is tightened about the fixed support member when it is pulled down out of the box to expose the message or other indicia provided on it. Upon being released,

anism for rewinding it into the box.

This invention relates to a moving message sign activated by a pulling action, by the viewer.

The moving message sign, according to a first embodiment of the invention, employs a message bearing member which is wound on a spring-loaded roller and normally concealed within an appropriately decorated box. The message bearing member is pulled down to expose the message or other indicia, described more fully below, printed or otherwise provided on it. Upon being released, the message bearing member is automatically rewound on the spring-loaded roller so that it, once again, is concealed. According to a second and preferred embodiment, the message bearing member of the moving message sign functions both as a means for displaying a message and as the spring mechanism for rewinding it. More specifically, the message bearing member, in this case, is formed from a springy material which normally is loosely rolled on a fixed support member and is tightened about the fixed support member when it is pulled down out of the box to expose the message or other indicia provided on it. Upon being released, the message bearing member functions as the spring mechanism for rewinding it into the box.

From the above brief description, it can be seen that the message bearing member of the first embodiment of the invention generally resembles and functions in the same manner as an ordinary window shade. Its application, however, is in an entirely different or foreign environment and in a fashion such as to provide a new and unexpected result, as set forth more fully below. The message bearing member of the second embodiment, on the other hand, functions in a manner exactly opposite the manner in which an ordinary window shade functions. For example, an ordinary window shade normally is tightly wound or rolled about its roller, and is pulled down in a fashion such as to unroll it. This latter action twists the spring hidden within the roller, to prepare it to rewind or reroll the shade, when released. As indicated above, the message bearing member of the moving message sign is loosely 3,466,776 Patented Sept. 16, 1969 rolled about a fixed support, and is tightened about the fixed support when it is pulled down.

A moving message sign of one or the other of the described constructions can be used in a whole host of different applications. For example, to mention but a few of their many applications, the moving message sign can be housed in a decorative box, for a gag item for the novelty, giftwares and stationery fields. Upon pulling the message sign out of the box, a message such as, for example, Help, Im a prisoner in a shade factoryl would appear, or, Congratulations on your performance at the Bowl. Many different one and two part gags can be provided and, in the latter case, the opening line can be printed on the box and the conclusion, or punch line, on the message sign.

The moving message signs also can be used as a point of sale device. An example of this application would be to provide a decorative box indicative of the product and a message directed to the product on the message sign.

Another application is for a safety sign. The message sign can be of a reective material or fabric which glows, with the message, Send Help printed on it. The message sign preferably would be housed within a specially designed box which is adapted to be easily aflixed to the inside of the trunk lid of an automobile. The message sign would be safely stored within the box which is aflixed to the trunk lid and would always be readily available and not subject to being lost or misplaced. When an emergency arises, the trunk lid would be raised and the message sign pulled down so that it is clearly visible to the driver of an approaching automobile, as a warning sign and/or an appeal for help.

Still another application is as a greeting card. For example, Happy Birthday can be printed on the outside of the box housing the message sign, and the latter can have another message printed on it which is presented to the viewer when the message sign is pulled out of the box.

It also can be used as a calendar for the home or office. A one month or a twelve month calendar can be provided in a wide variety of decorative or imprinted boxes that are adapted to be easily removably affixed to a support Surface such as a wall. The calendars normally are concealed, and are pulled down for viewing.

Still another use is as a specialty advertising item. A

' poruon of a message is provided on the outside of the box,

and the balance of the message is on the message sign. The appearing and disappearing feature adds considerably to the appeal and the impact of the message.

The outside of the box also can be appropriately imprinted, and the message sign can carry a full color or black and white reproduction of a famous scene in a city, or at a fair, or the like. ln other words, the message sign can be advantageously used as a souvenir postcard or the like.

Still another application is as a disappearing pin-up. Your favorite pin-up girl, photograph, sketch or the like can be kept in your room, locker or barracks, concealed within the box for privacy and pulled down for enjoyment.

A moving message sign constructed in accordance with the second and preferred embodiment of the invention is particularly applicable for use as a device for exposing a gag or joke in a fashion such as to provide a quick exposure of the gag or joke, a pleasant amusing impact on the reader, and a subsequent release or upward feeding back, or rewinding, of the message sign.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide new and novel moving message signs which are activated by a pulling action, by the viewers.

Another object is to provide new and novel moving message signs of the above type which are applicable for use in a whole host of different applications such as, for example, gag items, point of sale devices, safety signs, greeta ing cards, calendars, postcards and specialty advertising items, to mention but a few of their many uses.

Another object is to provide new and novel moving message signs of the above type which can be easily and inexpensively fabricated. In this respect, another object is to provide an improved box for housing the message bearing member thereof.

Still another object is to provide new and novel moving message signs of the above type having a message bearing member which functions both as a means for displaying a mesage and as a spring mechanism for rerolling itself, into the box.

A still further object is to provide a new and novel spring mechanism.

Other objects of the invention will in part be obvious and will in part appear hereinafter.

The invention accordingly comprises an article of manufacture possessing the features, properties, and the relation of elements which will be exemplified in the article hereinafter described, and the scope of the invention will be indi- L cated in the claims.

For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front plan View of a moving message sign exemplary of a rst embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a front plan view of the moving message sign of FIG. l, illustrating the message bearing member thereof extended or withdrawn from the box;

FIG. 3 is a sectional view, taken along lines 3-3 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of a blank from which the box for the moving message sign of FIG. 1 is constructed;

FIGS. 5-8 are perspective views, generally illustrating the manner in which the blank of FIG. 4 is folded to form the box;

FIG. 9 is a sectional view, taken along lines 9-9 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a perspective View, illustrating the manner in which the message bearing member is placed within the box;

FIG. ll is a perspective view of a moving message sign exemplary of a second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the moving message sign of FIG. 11, illustrating the message bearing member thereof extended or withdrawn from its box;

FIG. 13 is another perspective view of the moving message sign of FIG. 11, further illustrating its construction;

FIG. 14 is a plan View of a blank from which the box for the moving message sign of FIG. 11 is fabricated;

FIG. l5 is a perspective view, generally illustrating the manner in which the blank is folded to fixedly support the message bearing member;

FIG. 16 is a sectional view, taken along lines 16-16 of FIG.

FIG. 17 is a sectional view, further illustrating the manner in which the blank is folded to form the box;

FIG. 18 is a sectional view, taken along lines 18-18 of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a plan view of the message bearing member prior to its being loosely rolled and affixed within the box;

FIGS. 20 and 21 are sectional views taken transversely through the moving message sign, and generally illustrating the manner in which the message bearing member thereof is normally loosely rolled within the box and the manner in which it is tightened about its support when extended or withdrawn from the box;

FIG. 22 is a plan view of another blank from which a box for the moving message sign of FIG. 1l can be fabricated;

FIG. 23 is a side plan view of one of the flutes used to position and retain the message bearing member within the box;

FIG. 24 is an end plan view of the flute of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a side plan view of the message bearing member with one of the utes affixed to it;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view generally illustrating the manner in which the message bearing member with the flutes aixed to it is positioned or seated within the box;

FIG. 27 is a top plan View of the box, with the message bearing member positionally seated therein;

FIG. 2S is a partial perspective view, illustrating the plastic grab bar aixed to the one end of the message bearing member;

FIG. 29 is a top plan view of a support bar which is afxed to one end of the message bearing member;

FIG. 30 is an end plan view of the support bar;

FIG. 31 is a view generally illustrating the manner in which the support bar is folded and affixed to the end of the message bearing member;

FIG. 32 is a partial side plan view of the message bearing member with the support bar aixed to it; and

FIG. 33 is a partial top plan View of the message bearing member with the support bar afxed to it.

Similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

Referring now to the drawings, in FIGS. 1-10 there is illustrated a moving message sign 10 exemplary of a first embodiment of the invention. The sign I4) includes a message bearing member 12 which normally is concealed within the open interior of a box 14 and which is adapted to be pulled out of the box 14 to display a message 16, such as the message, When youre thirsty drink Sams beerl to the viewers. The message bearing member 12 includes a length of rollable material 1S which may be, for example, fabric, paper or plastic, and which is lixedly secured along one edge thereof to a spring-loaded roller 2li. The message 16 is printed or otherwise provided on the surface of the material 18 which is exposed when the material is unrolled, or pulled out of the box 14. The message bearing member 12 therefore has a construction like that of an ordinary window shade and, in fact, a window shade can be used, if desired. In this respect, it can be generally stated that the moving message sign 10 involves the use of a well-known object, a window shade, in a foreign environment and in a fashion such as to provide a new and unexpected result.

More particularly, window shades generally are aixed to a window casing, in an appropriate fashion, and are pulled down and releasably locked in an extended position, until such time as its use no longer is desired. It is then released and permitted to re-wind itself, upon its supporting roller, in the well-known manner. The window shades can be opaque to completely block-out sunlight, or alternatively, they can be translucent to allow light to penetrate them to softly light a room. Window shades, of course, also can be used to prevent people from seeing into, or out of, a window. Accordingly, it is apparent that the use of a window shade to provide a moving message sign is an entirely new application, completely foreign to the environment in which they are generally intended for use.

More particularly still, the window shade-type message bearing member 12 is supported within the open interior of the box 14, by means of the spring-loaded roller 20. The box 14 can be of numerous different constructions so long as the message bearing member 12 can be supported within its interior, in a concealed fashion, and can be unrolled by pulling it out of the box. A short length of string 22 having a ring 24 aixed to its one end advantageously can be affixed to the free end of the message bearing member 12 for pulling it out of the box 14.

A primary consideration in using the moving message sign 10 in numerous ones of the above-mentioned applications is its costs. For example, when used as a gag item for the novelty, giftwares, and stationery fields, the moving message sign 16 must be fabricated inexpensively, otherwise the retail price at which it can be profitably' sold will be too high to stimulate sales and, more importantly, repeated sales. Accordingly, while the box 14 can be of any one of a number of different constructions, it preferably is fabricated from a single blank of sheet material, such as the blank 26 illustrated in FIG. 4.

The blank 26 is rectangular-shaped and preferably is a relatively heavy-weight paperboard material. The blank 26, furthermore, is cut and scored in a fashion such that there is virtually no waste, as will be apparent from the description below. Also, all of the cut and score lines extend horizontally and vertically so that they can be easily provided on the blank. The construction, in addition, is such that no adhesives or other fastening means is required to maintain the box 14 erect. More specifically, the blank 26 is cut and scored with horizontal score lines 28-35, vertical cut lines 38-41 and vertical score lines 43 and 44 so as to provide a top wall 45, outer side walls 46 and 47, inner side walls 48 and 49, locking aps 50 and 51, and end wall sections 53 and 54 which are integrally afxed to the opposite ends of the top Wall 45, along respective ones of the score lines 43 and 44. The horizontal score lines 2S and 29 extend across the entire width of the blank 26, and the end wall sections 53 and 54 have cut lines 55 and 56, and 57 and 58, in them, respectively, which extend inwardly from the opposite side edges 36 and 37 of the blank to the score lines 28 and 29 and form outer end walls 6i) and 61, inner end walls 62 and 63, and end aps 64-71 integrally axed `to the outer and inner end walls 60-63. Each of inner end walls 62 and 63 has an aperture 72 provided in it, for receiving roller supports 74 and 75 (FIG. 6) in a manner described more fully below.

The blank 26 is folded, as illustrated in FIGS. 5-8, to form the box 14. The roller supports 74 and 75 rst are placed on the blank 26, with the projecting portion thereof extending through the apertures 72 in the inner end walls 62 and 63. It may be noted that the flange portions of the supports have dimensions which generally correspond to those of the end Walls 60-63 and are sandwiched between the outer and inner end walls 60 and 62, and 61 and 63, when the latter are folded in overlapped relationship, as illustrated in FIG. 6. The roller supports 74 and '75 thereby are prevented from turning, when the message bearing member is pulled down, since they are securely confined. Next, the overlapped pairs of outer and inner end walls 60, 62 and 61, 63 are folded, along the score lines 43 and 44, respectively, so that they stand perpendicular to the top wall 45. The end flaps 64-71 then are folded, along the score lines 28 and 29, so that they extend inwardly toward one another, as illustrated in FIG. 7.

The outer side wall 46 now is folded, along the score lines 28, to extend upwardly, perpendicular to the top wall 45, and the inner side wall 48 is folded, along the score lines 31 and 32, so as to extend into the interior of the box, parallel to the outer side wall 46. The width of the area between the score lines 31 and 32 substantially corresponds to the thickness of the overlapped end flaps 64 and 65, and 68 and 69, so that a smooth, at face surface 73 (FIG. 8) is provided. The locking flap St) is folded, along the score line 30, so as to extend toward the center of the box, atop the top wall 45 as can be best seen in FIG. 3.

The outer side wall 47, inner side wall 49 and the locking ap 51 are folded in a similar fashion, to sandwich the end flaps 66 and 67, and 70 and 71, between them and with the locking ap 51 extending toward the center of the box, atop the top wall 45.

The locking flaps 5B and 51 each have a width which substantially corresponds to one half of the width of the interior of the box 14 so that their ends abut one another, as illustrated in FIG. 3, to lock the box 14 in the described erected condition. Accordingly, no adhesives or other fastening means is required. It also may be noted that the roller supports 74 and 75 are affixed within the box 14, without the need of fastening means. The overlapped ends flaps 64-71 and the double thickness provided by the outer and inner side walls 46-49 and by the outer and inner end walls 60-63 reinforce the walls of the box 14 so that a strong, durable box is provided.

After the box 14 is erected, the message bearing member 12 is positioned within it, by releasably locking the end pins '7 7 and 78 (FIG. l0) of the roller 20 about which it is rolled within respective ones of the roller supports 74 and 75.

The moving message sign 10 can be easily and quickly removably affixed to a support surface such as a wall, a locker door or the like, by means of an adhesive strip 76 (FIG. l0) affixed to the outer wall 47. Other fastening means also can be used, if desired.

As indicated above, the moving message sign 10 can have numerous different messages or other indicia provided on its message bearing member 12. For example, gags, sales slogans, warning signs, and appeals for help can be printed or otherwise provided on the message bearing member 12. These messages normally are concealed, and are only made visible to a viewer, when the message bearing member 12 is pulled down out of the box 14. The message bearing member 12 can be left extended and the message on it enjoyed for as long as desired, for the message bearing member 12 releasably locks in the extended position, until released, in the same manner as a window shade. When it is desired to again conceal the message, the message bearing member 12 is pulled down and then released to permit the spring-loaded roller 20 to rotate and thereby reroll the message bearing member about it.

When used as a warning sign and/or an appeal for help, the surface of the message bearing member pref erably has a reflective material provided on it or, alternatively, a day-glo fabric or the like is used so that it is clearly visible to approaching automobiles. As indicated above, in this case, the box advantageously is adaptable to be axed to the trunk lid so that the message bearing sign is readily available. When needed, the trunk lid merely is raised and the message bearing member 12 pulled down out of the box 14.

In many cases, calendars are desired in an oce, home or the like, however, the appearances of the calendars detract from the decor of the room. Using a moving message sign 10, a calendar can easily be blended in with the decor of the room so that it does not stand out, by providing a decorative surface on the box 14 which matches or blends with the Wall covering. The calendar normally is concealed within the box 14, and can be pulled down out of it when needed. Thereafter, it can be easily and quickly retracted.

The box 14 can be easily printed or otherwise prepared with an appropriate surface, since the surface can be provided on it while it is in the form of the blank 26. The same is true with respect to the message or other indicia provided on the message bearing member 12, since the latter can be unrolled and made to lay flat while the message is applied to it.

In FIGS. 1l-21, there is illustrated another moving message sign 80 which is exemplary of a second embodiment of the invention. The moving message sign 80* is particularly adapted to expose a gag or joke which, once read, is not intended to hang down for a long period of time. Instead, it is adapted to provide a quick exposure, a pleasant amusing impact on the viewer, and a subsequent release and rapid retraction of the message back into the box in which it is contained.

More specifically, the moving message sign S0 includes a message bearing member 82 which normally is contained, supported and concealed within a general closed box 84. In this case, the box 84 also can function as the mailing envelope for the moving message sign 80, if desired.

As in the case of the moving message sign 10, the cost of fabricating the moving message sign is of primary consideration since it must be fabricated inexpensively, otherwise it will have limited sales appeal. The box S4 therefore also is designed so that it can be easily and inexpensively fabricated from a single blank of paperboard material, with the least amount of waste as possible, and can be erected and the message bearing member 82 supported therein, without the need of adhesives or other fastening means. The blank 86 from which the box S4- is formed is illustrated in PIG. 14. The blank 86 has horizontal score lines 88-90` and Vertical score lines 92 and 93 formed on it, which divide the blank 86 into four equal size side walls 941-97 and end aps 98, 99, 100, 101, 102 and 103 which are integrally aihxed to the opposite ends of the side walls 94, 95 and 97, respectively. The side wall 96 does not have end flaps.

r[he end flaps 98 and 99 have vertical score lines 104 formed on them, respectively, which score lines provide tuck flaps 106 and 107 on the ends of the end aps.

Vertical score lines 108 and 109 are formed on the end flap 100, and similar vertical score lines 110 and 111 are formed on the end flap 101. These score lines 10S-111 permit the end flaps 100 and 101 to be folded so as to form spacers 112, 113 and 11d, 115 on respective ones of them, to space these end aps inwardly of the opposite ends of the side wall 9S, as illustrated in FlG. 15 and for reasons described more fully below. A support post aperture 117 also is provided in each of the end aps 100 and 101, for receiving and xedly supporting the opposite ends of a support post 118 for the message bearing member 82. Spacers 119 and 120 also are provided on the ends of respective ones of the end aps 102 and 103, by means of vertical score lines 121 and 122.

Finger notches 123 and 124 preferably are provided in the outer edges of the side walls 94 and 97, respectively, so that the message bearing member 82 can be more easily gripped to pull it out of the box 813. Locking notches 125 and 126 also are provided in the edges of the end flaps 100 and 101, respectively, and cooperate with similar locking notches 127 and 128 provided in the edges of the end flaps 102 and 103, to prevent the message bearing member 82 from being fully retracted into the box 84, as described more fully below. These latter locking notches 127 and 128 are provided by a notch 129 formed in the edge of the blank 86 and extending across the width of the side wall 97 and a short distance into each of the end flaps 102 and 103. Locking slots 130 and 131 also are formed in the edges of the end iiaps 98 and 99, adjacent the score lines 92 and 93 and cooperate with the locking notches 12S-128. The ends of a gripping bar 132 affixed to the one end of the message bearing member 82 seat within these locking notches 12S-128 and the locking slots 130 and 131, to prevent the message bearing member 82 from fully retracting into the box 84.

The message bearing member 82 preferably is formed of a length of springy paper material 133, such as l-ply Bristol board. Other materials having a springy effect when wound in the manner described below can be used, however, here again a paper material is perferred because of its relatively low cost. The message bearing member 82 also is preferably formed so that the grain, or fibers, of the paper extends in the direction of its length, as illustrated in F1G. 19. It can be formed so that the grain runs acros the width of the paper material 133, however, more springiness and hence more power to quickly retract the message bearing member 82 is provided When the grain runs in the direction of its length. The support post 118 is fixedly secured to the one end of the paper material 133 forming the message bearing member 82, by means of an adhesive, staples, eyelets or any other suitable means. The support post 118, in this illustrated embodiment, comprises simply a Wooden stick which is rectangular or square-shaped in cross-section so that it can be iixedly secured against rotation within the support post aperatures 117 and will support the message bearing member 82 within the box 84. Other support posts, such as the one described below, which will function in the above described fashion also can be used, if desired. However, the described Wooden stick is extremely inexpensive and functions entirely satisfactorily. The gripping bar 132 likewise can be simply a wooden stick and can be aiiixed to the opposite end of the paper material 133 in any suitable fashion, for example, in any one of the different manners described above. The gripping bar 132 also can be attractively colored, to add to the appearance of the moving message sign 10.

As indicated above, in the case of the moving message sign 80, the message bearing member 82 functions both as a means for displaying a message and as a spring mechanism for retracting the message bearing member, back into the box 84. This latter function is provided by winding the paper material 133 forming the message bearing member 82 tightly, but not so tight that the paper material 133 is creased, around the support post 118. When wound in this fashion, the paper material 133 has a natural tendency to unwind, when released. It is this mechanical principle which is relied upon to cause the message bearing member 82 to function as the spring .mechanism for retracting the message bearing member 82 back into the box 84, as described more fully below. Accordingly, the need for a spring-loaded roller or the like is completely eliminated, and the moving message sign 80 can be fabricated very inexpensively.

In winding the paper material 133 about the support post 118, only the excess portion thereof should be wound about it. That is, if it is desired to pull, for example, an 8 inch length of the paper material out of the box 84, the remaining or excess length thereof is wound about the support post 118 and the paper material then secured within the box 84, by engaging the ends of the support post Within respective ones of the support post apertures 117, with the 8 inch length extending out of the box. When the end of the 8 inch length is released, the tightly wound excess portion will pull the 8 inch length into the box, as it unwinds. The length of the paper material 133 will vary, depending upon the extent or length to which it is to be pulled or drawn out of the box 84, its Width, the speed at which it is to be retracted and the particular material which is used. Accordingly, these factors must rst be determined and then the required length determined, by experiment with several ditferenth lengths until satisfactory results are obtained.

The moving message sign 80 is formed by rst folding the end flaps 100 and 101, along the respective score lines 108 and 109, and 110 and 111, so that these end aps extend upwardly, perpendicularly disposed with respect to the side wall 95 and spaced inwardly of the ends of the side wall 95, as illustrated in FIG. 15. Next, the message bearing member 82 is wound about the support post 11S, in the manner described above to provide the desired extendable length, and the ends of the support post 118 inserted within the support post apertures 117 formed in the end flaps 100 and 101. Once the ends of the support post 118 are secured within the support post apertures 117, the ends of the gripper bar 132 can be seated atop the locking notches 12S-128 formed in the end aps 100-103, as illustrated in FIG. 16, and the message bearing member 82 released. It will unwind, however, the gripper bar 132 will prevent the message bearing member 82 from completely unwinding.

Next, the blank 86 is folded, along the score line S9, so that the side Wall 96 is perpendicularly disposed with respect to the side wall 95, and is folded again, along the score line 90, so that the side Wall 97 is perpendicularly disposed with respect to the side wall 96. The side wall 97 now rests atop the spacers 112 and 115 on the end aps 100 and 101.

The blank 86 then is folded, along the score lines 121 and 122, so that the spacers 119 and 120 on the end flaps 102 and 103 extend perpendicularly downwardly, and then folded again, along the score lines 92 and 93, so that the end flaps 102 and 103 enclose the opposite ends of the support bar 118. During these folds, the spacers 119 and 120 are tucked in so as to rest atop the spacers 113 and 114.

The blank 86 next is folded, along the score line 88, to position the side wall 94 to close the remaining open side of the box 84. The end flaps 98 and 99 are folded, along the score lines 92 and 93, to overlap the end flaps 102 and 103, and are again folded, along the score lines 104 and 105, so that the tuck flaps 106 and 107 can be tucked in the slots between the edge of the end flaps 102 and 103 and the side wall 96. Once the tuck flaps 102 and 103 are inserted, the box 84 is completely formed and will remain erect.

The message bearing member 82 of the moving message sign 80 can have a message 134, such as the birthday greeting, Another year has passed, printed or otherwise provided on it, so that the moving message sign comprises a novel birthday greeting card. Also, characterizations and other designs likewise can be provided on the message bearing member 82, as well as on the box 84. Two part messages and/or gags can be provided, by providing the opening line on the box 84 and the conclusion or punch line on the message bearing member 82. Accordingly, these variations, as well as those set forth more fully above, can be easily applied to the moving message sign 80 to adapt it for a whole host of different applications.

The moving message sign 10 can be mailed, using the box 84 as its mailing envelope. Alternatively, it can be giftwrapped in the event the box 84 is decoratively designed or has part of the message to be conveyed to the viewer printed on it, so that the mailing addresses and postage do not detract from its appearance.

Prior to pulling the message bearing member 82 out of the box 84, the message bearing member is loosely wound about the support post 118, that is, it is in its unwound condition, and lls the entire box so that it is prevented from expanding further by the confines of the box, as illustrated in FIG. 20. The end of the message bearing member 82 is prevented from being fully retracted into the box 84, by the gripping bar 132 which seats within the locking notches 12S-128 and the locking slots 130 and 131. It may be noted that the gripping bar 132 is generally concealed by the side wall 94, so that it is protected from damage during mailing.

To view the message on the message bearing member 82, the box 84 is held in one hand, the gripping bar 132 gripped between two fingers of the other hand, and the message bearing member 82 pulled out of the box, as illustrated in FIG. 12. As the message bearing member 82 is pulled out of the box, the convolutions or coils of the excess portion thereof, that is, that portion which is not intended to be exposed, are tightly wound, as illustrated in FIG. 21, since the support post 118 is xedly secured against rotation. When the pulling force on the message bearing member 82 is released, the coils of the excess portion will again unwind and thereby function as a spring mechanism to retract the message bearing member 82 back into the box, until the gripping bar 132 again seats within the locking notches l12S-128 and the locking slots 130 and 131 to limit its travel.

While the construction of the moving message signs 10 and 80 have been described in detail, it is apparent that numerous modifications can be made to the boxes 14 and 84 and to the message bearing members 12 and 82, without departing from the teachings of the invention. For example, in FIGS. 22-33, there is illustrated an alternative manner in which is a moving message sign like the moving message sign 80 can be formed. This disclosed construction is preferred, primarily because of the ease at which the whole operation is performed. In addition, the box still is formed from an inexpensive, single blank of sheet material, without the need of adhesives or the like and, furthermore, these blanks can be shipped and or stored fiat so that shipping and/or storage thereof does not present a problem. The box also can be assembled more rapidly than the box 84, and the message bearing member thereof can be more easily and quickly rolled and positioned therein, all as fully described below.

In FIG. 22, the blank of sheet material from which the box 141 (FIG. 26) is formed is illustrated. It can be seen that this blank also is generally rectangular shaped and has horizontal score lines 142-144 formed on it, dividing the same so as to provide side walls 146-149, and vertical score lines 151 and 152 which further divide the same so as to provide end flaps 154-156 and 157-159 which are integrally affixed to the opposite sides of the side walls, respectively. It may he noted that the side wall 147 does not have end flaps on it. The end aps 156 and 159 also have vertical score lines 161 and 162, lwhich further divide them so as to provide tuck aps flaps 163 and 164 on respective ones of them. Locking slots 166-169 also are provided in the end flaps 154-158, respectively, which locking slots interlock with one another to erect the box 141, as described below. Finger notches 171 and 172, locking notches 173-176, and locking slots 177 and 178 like those formed in the blank 86 also are formed in the blank 140.

To form the box 141, the end flaps 154, 155, 157, 15S rst are folded upwardly, along the respective score lines 151 and 152, so that they stand perpendicular to the rest of the blank 140. The blank is then folded upwardly, along the score line 143, so that the side walls 148 and 149 stand generally perpendicular. Next, the side wall 146 is folded upwardly, along the score line 142, so that it also stands generally perpendicular, and the locking slots 166 and 167, and 168 and 169, interlock with one another to affix or lock the end flaps 154, and 157, 158, together. When folded in this fashion, the box 141 appears as illustrated in FIG. 26. The message bearing member 180, with ilutes 181 and 182 affixed to it, as described below, now is positioned within the box. The side wall 149 now is folded, along score line 144, to close the box, and the end aps 156 and 159 are folded, along the score lines 151 and 152, respectively, to close the ends of the box, and are further folded, along the score lines 161 and 162, to permit the tuck flaps 163 and 164 to be inserted to fully form the box. When fully folded, the box 141 looks the same as the box 84, as shown in FIG. 1l. From this description, it is apparent that the box 141 can be folded, and the moving message sign formed, far easier and more quickly than the moving message sign 80. As indicated above, for this reason, this construction is preferred.

The message bearing member 180, in this case, also has a pair of flutes 181 and 182 removably aixed to each of the opposite ends of its support post 183, which flutes function to support the message bearing member and/or the support post 183 against rotation when positioned within the box 141. These flutes 181 and 182 therefore replace the end flaps 180 and 101 and the spacers 112-115 of the box 84. The flutes 181 and 182 are identical to one another and, as can be best seen in FIGS. 23 and 24, they are generally square-shaped and of a size so as to tit snugly within the box 141, The lower corners 185 and 186 thereof advantageously are rounded so that they can be more easily inserted into the box. One of the upper corners is notched so as to provide a locking notch 187 which functions in conjunction with the locking notches 173-176 on the end aps 154-158, and a support post aperture 188 is centrally provided therein, for receiving an end of the support post 183. These flutes can be formed of various types of material which preferably are light in weight and relatively strong so that they do not add materially to the weight of the moving message sign,

and the support post apertures 188 are not subject to damage when the message bearing member 180 is pulled out or retracted into the box. For reasons indicated above, the cost of the flutes also is of considerable importance hence a material such as 200 pound test C-ute Kraft corrugated material, paperboard, plastic, or wood, preferably is used.

The iiutes 131 and 182, in addition to making it easier and quicker to insert the message bearing member 180 into the box 141, also can be advantageously used to roll the message rbearing member 189. For example, the iiutes 181 and 182 can be affixed to the ends of the support post 183 before the message bearing member is rolled, and placed within a jig (not shown) which is adapted to be rotated. The gripping bar on the opposite end of the message bearing member is held with suicient tension so that the message bearing member is tightly wound or rolled about the support post 183, as the jig is rotated. When the excess portion thereof, as defined above, is wound onto the support post, the wound roll is removed, along with the iiutes, and placed Within the box 141, generally as illustrated in FIG. 26. If desired, the jig can be further adapted to support the box 141 in a fashion such that the rolled message bearing member 180 can be removed from the jig and seated within the box, simultaneously. It can therefore `be seen that the use of the flutes 181 and 182 provides substantial advantages.

In FIG. 28, a gripping bar 190 is illustrated which comprises an elongated length of hollow material which is generally triangular-shaped and is slotted at its apex so as to receive and to lockingly grip the end edge of the message bearing member 180 therein. The gripping bar 190 preferably is of plastic since it is relatively inexpensive and is attractive, however, it can be of other materials such as metal. A gripping bar 190 also is preferred over using one of woo-d, such as the gripping bar 132, since it can be more easily and quickly affixed, without the need of additional fastening means such as staples or an adhesive.

The end edge of the message bearing member 180 also can be tinned like a calendar to provide a gripping bar on it, if desired.

In FIGS. 29-33, there is illustrated a support post 183 formed from a generally rectangular-shaped blank 191 of heavy paperboard material which has a score line 192 formed lengthwise thereof, dividing the same in half. The blank 191 is folded over, along the score line 192, as illustrated in FIGS. 3l and 32, about the end edge of the message bearing member 180, so as to captivate it between the two halves thereof. The end edge of the message bearing member 186 can be -fixedly secured therein, by means of staples, eyelets, adhesive or other fastening means.

It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description, are efficiently attained and, since certain changes may be made in the above article Without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described, and all statemeents of the scope of the invention, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

Now that the invention has been described, what is claimed as new and desired to be secured by Letters Patent is:

1. A moving message sign comprising, in combination: a box-like container which is open along oneof its sides; a generally rectangular-shaped sheet of material having one end thereof xedly secured to a spring-loaded roller supported Within said box-like container, said roller being adapted to retract said sheet of material back into said box-like container; indicia provided on said sheet of material; said sheet of material normally being convolutely rolled about said roller and generally concealed Within said box-like container, and adapted to be nnrolled as it is pulled out of said box-like container to visibly display said indicia, said roller being prepared to reroll said sheet of material to retract it back into said box-like container as said sheet of material is being pulled out of said boxlike container, said box-like container being formed from a single blank of sheet material which is cut, scored and folded so as to form a top wall, a pair of side walls and a pair of end walls, said side walls each having an inner side wall integrally aiiixed to it which is folded interiorly of said box-like container, each of said inner side walls having a lock flap integrally aflixed to it which is folded atop the interior surface of said top wall with its end extending toward the other one of said lock aps, said lock flaps being proportioned to lie at atop the interior surface of said top wall with their ends abutting one another to lock said box-like container erect.

2. The moving message sign of claim 1, further including a pair of roller support means having a head portion and a flange portion for supporting respective ones of the ends of said spring-loaded roller, said pair of end walls of said box-like carton each being folded double and having one of said roller support means sandwiched therebetween with said head portion extending through an aperture therein so as to be engageable by said end of said roller, whereby no additional fastening means are required to secure said roller support means within said box-like container, said flange portion being rectilinear in shape and substantially coextensive in area to the area of said end walls so as to prevent them from rotating.

3. A moving message sign comprising, in combination: a box-like container which is open along one of its sides; a generally rectangular-shaped sheet of material having one end thereof secured to support post means which is fixedly secured against rotation within said box-like container; indicia provided on said sheet of material; said sheet of material normally being loosely convolutely rolled about said support post means and generally concealed within said box-like container, and adapted to be unrolled as it is pulled out of said box-like container to visibly display said indicia, said sheet of material having a portion thereof tightly rolled about said support post means as its free end is pulled out of said box-like container under the stress of the full force applied to it, said tightly rolled portion having a natural tendency to unwind and functioning as a spring mechanism to retract said sheet of material back into said box-like container to be re-rolled when the free end of said sheet of material is released.

4. The moving message sign of claim 3, wherein said sheet of material comprises a heavy-weight paper.

5. The moving message sign of claim 4, wherein said heavy-weight paper comprises a 1-ply Bristol board material.

6. The moving message sign of claim 4, wherein the grain of said paper is disposed to extend lengthwise thereof.

7. The moving message sign of claim 3, wherein said box-like container is formedv from a single blank of sheet material which is cut, scored and folded so as to form a generally closed box-like container having four side walls, and two end walls, at least one of said side Walls having a ap integrally aixed to each of its opposite ends which is adapted to be folded so as to be positioned in spaced relation to and concealed by one of said end walls, a support post aperture in each of said aps for receiving the end of a support post, said one end of said sheet of material being secured to a support post and said sheet of material and said support post being supported and retained within said box-like container by engaging the ends of said support post within respective ones of said support post apertures, said support post and said support post apertures being shaped so as to secure said support post against rotation therein.

8. The moving message sign of claim 3, wherein the free end of said message bearing member is adapted to engage the opposite side walls of said box-like container t0 prevent said free end from being fully retracted into said box-like container, so that said free end can be easily grasped to pull said message bearing member out of said box-like member.

9. The moving message sign of claim 8, wherein said message bearing member has a wooden stick-like gripper bar aflixed to its free end, said gripper bar engaging the opposite side walls of said box-like container to prevent said free end from being fully retracted into said boxlike container and providing means which can be easily grasped to pull said message bearing member out of said box-like container.

10. The moving message sign of claim 9, wherein said box-like container is formed so that said gripper bar is generally concealed by one of its side walls.

11. The moving message sign of claim 3, wherein said box-like container is formed from a single blank of sheet material which is cut, scored and folded so as to form a generally closed box-like container having four side walls, and two end walls, and wherein there is further included a pair of flutes which are adapted to be fixedly seated against rotation within said container, said utes each having an aperture for receiving one of the ends of said support post means, said support post means and said apertures being shaped so as to secure said support post means against rotation therein.

12. The moving message sign of claim 3, further including a hollow, generally triangular-shaped grasping bar which is slotted at its apex afxed to the free end of said message bearing member by extending and lockingly gripping said edge of said free end within said slot formed at its apex, said gripping bar being adapted to engage the opposite side walls of said box-like container to prevent said free end from being fully retracted into said box-like container, so that said free end can be easily grasped to pull said message bearing member out of said box-like member.

13. The moving message sign of claim 3, wherein said support post means comprises a rectangular-shaped blank of sheet material which is scored lengthwise thereof so as to divide it in half, said halves of said blank being folded over so as to receive the end edge of said message bearing member therebetween and xedly secured thereto.

14. A moving message sign comprising, in combination: a message bearing member formed of a length of springy paper material and having indicia provided thereon, on at least a portion of it, a box-like container, said message 'bearing member being loosely rolled in a coillike fashion with one of its ends fixedly secured within said box-like container and its other free end extending out of said box-like container and being retained in a fashion such that said free end can be easily grasped to pull said message bearing member out of said box-like container, said loosely rolled coils being tightened as said message bearing member is pulled out of said box-like container and functioning as a spring mechanism to retract said message bearing member back into said boxlike container when said free end is released.

15. A moving message sign of claim 14, wherein the grain of said springy paper material extends lengthwise of said message bearing member.

16. A spring mechanism formed from a length of springy paper material, said springy paper material having one of its ends fixedly secured to support means which is lixedly secured against rotation and having a predetermined portion of its length tightly rolled about said support means, the remaining portion of its length forming an extendable and retractable portion, said tightly rolled portion of said length of springy paper material having a natural tendency to unwind and thereby function as a spring to retract said extendable and retractable portion of said length of springy paper material.

17. The spring mechanism of claim 16, wherein the grain of said springy paper material extends lengthwise thereof.

18. Av moving message sign comprising, in combination: a message bearing member formed of a length of springy paper material and having indicia provided thereon, on at least a portion of it, a box-like container, a pair of flutes each having a support port aperture therein and adapted to be iixedly seated against rotation within said container, a support post fixedly secured to one end of said message bearing member and having its end seated within said support post apertures in respective ones of said flutes so as to prevent said support post from rotating, said message bearing member being loosely rolled in a coil-like fashion about said support post and having its free end extending out of said box-like container in a fashion such that said free end can be easily grasped to pull said message bearing member out of said box-like container, said loosely rolled coils being tightened about said support post as said message bearing member is pulled out of said box-like 'container and functioning as a spring mechanism to retract said message bearing member back into said box-like container when said free end is released.

References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 433,841 8/1890 Williamson 40-85 1,573,195 2,/1926 Russell 40--85 1,688,677 10/1928 Winter 40-85 1,966,276 7/ 1934 Armstrong 40--82 EUGENE R. CAPOZIO, Primary Examiner W. H. GRIEB, Assistant Examiner U.S. Cl. X.R. 

